Ayam Penyet: Enjoy this spicy-flavored flattened chicken dish

Ayam Penyet is a dish consisting of fried chicken that is lightly flattened (hence its name, which means “flattened chicken” in Indonesian) and served with sambal, a spicy sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. This food is especially popular in Indonesia, although it has also gained recognition in other Southeast Asian countries. It is a traditional dish of Javanese cuisine.

It is usually served on a plate with accompaniments. The presentation is quite informal, as it is a popular food in fast food restaurants and street food stalls.

Traditionally, it is eaten with your hands, shredding the chicken and mixing it with the sambal and rice. Sometimes, a spoon or fork can be used, but the most authentic way is to enjoy it directly with your hands.

How to prepare Ayam Penyet at home

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 kg of chicken (thighs or breasts)
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Sambal:

• 5-10 red chilies (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
• Salt to taste

At your service:

• Cooked white rice
• Sliced ​​cucumber
• Tempeh or tofu (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, mix the crushed garlic, turmeric, salt and pepper.
   • Add the chicken and make sure it is well coated with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (you can leave it longer in the fridge for more flavor).
2. Fry the chicken:
   • Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Fry the marinated chicken until golden and cooked through (about 15-20 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Preparing the Sambal:
   • In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the chiles, garlic, sugar, lime juice and salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust flavor to taste.
4. Serve:
   • Lightly mash the fried chicken with a fork or spatula.
   • Serve the chicken on a plate, accompanied by white rice, cucumber slices and, if desired, tempeh or tofu.
   • Add the sambal on top or in a small bowl on the side for everyone to use as they like.